FEATURE PROCESS AUTOMATION GETTING READY FOR POST-PANDEMIC PROCESSING
infrared (FLIR) cameras can detect a person’s temperature from a distance for non-intrusive screening at scale. Employers can then execute policies, such as isolating those with elevated temperatures for testing with a thermometer.
3. AUTOMATION SOLUTIONS Exploring automation solutions allows manufacturing plants to decrease worker density on the factory floor. Smart automation solutions could include autonomous materials movement such as forklifts, cranes and drones, or the automation of repetitive tasks such as stock assembly using industrial robotics. Industrial automation and networking
Noel Sheppard, general manager at Distec, explains how four elements of smart connected manufacturing are paving the way for the anticipated new normal of the post-pandemic world
C
OVID-19 has had a significant impact on all industries, and one that has
been heavily affected is the manufacturing sector. With disruption and delays to shipments, a rise in demand for essential items and in some cases immediate closures due to lockdown, organisations have had to adjust to a new normal. As we learn to live and work during
periods of lockdown, now is the time when businesses need to reconsider their return to work policies, with many introducing regular temperature checks and compulsory PPE on site. One thing is clear - emerging technologies will play a vital role in helping the industry as it continues to adapt and restart operations. Smart, digital technologies will be
essential to prepare for the challenges ahead and help us adapt to new ways of operating. In fact, the global size of the smart manufacturing technology industry is estimated to grow from $181 billion in 2020 to $220 by 2025. COVID-19 has provided the impetus for
manufacturing companies to embrace the adoption of digital solutions. Here are some areas where technology is impacting working practices:
1. SMART SANITISING SOLUTIONS Developing and implementing an effective sanitising programme is vital to enable manufacturing plants to open whilst ensuring the safety of all workers. Smart technology provides an easy way
20 NOVEMBER 2020 | PROCESS & CONTROL
to ensure that these policies are properly carried out. Smart sanitising stations can ensure
that sanitiser never runs out by monitoring sanitiser usage and sending automatic notifications to notify you when your dispenser is running low or requires a refill of sanitiser. Hygiene control is not only important
for personnel, but also Panel PCs and touchscreens being used across manufacturing plants. The best solution for hygienic hardware is by using PCs and screens with stainless steel housing that is resistant to bacterial growth, capable of withstanding daily high -pressure wash- downs and with fully sealed waterproof, dust-proof casing for easy cleaning.
2. INFRARED (FLIR) CAMERAS Body temperature monitoring and altering has become a first line of defence against COVID-19 in the workplace. However, using hand-held infrared thermometers at close range can put testers at risk. Technology such as forward-looking
Smart, digital technologies will be essential to prepare for the challenges ahead and help us adapt to new ways of operating
solutions can also help manufacturers – both large and small – connect, monitor, and control operations. Plant floor visual management systems can display real- time Key Performance Indicator (KPI) data and Andon messages on large televisions to drive efficiency, giving visual tools of how the production line is performing. Visual management systems can also
connect to almost any plant floor equipment to help improve process improvement, delivering visibility into process and equipment performance in manufacturing environments. Many of these systems allow tasks to be
carried out offsite by web-enabling remote processes. Personnel can act on real-time data from virtually any equipment, anywhere. This will seamlessly connect new and existing equipment, minimise downtime and experience frictionless, future-proof scalability.
Exploring automation solutions allows manufacturing plants to decrease worker density on the factory floor
4. DIGITAL TWINS Finally, the use of simulation technology to produce digital twins of a manufacturing environment allows business owners to safely experiment with different scenarios, such as production line configuration or different staggered shift patterns, to evaluate the outcomes on employee safety and productivity, without the human and financial risks of experimenting in real life. It is clear that reviving the
manufacturing industry after such unprecedented challenges will not be an easy task. However, exploring smart manufacturing solutions, can not only ensure the safety of their workers and their production efficiency, but also propel their business into the next generation of Industry 4.0, which will reap benefits in both the short- and long-term future.
Distec
www.distec.co.uk
/ PROCESS&CONTROL
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